Defending champion Aryna Sabalenka moved into the semi-finals of the US Open 2025 without playing a match after her quarter-final opponent, Marketa Vondrousova, withdrew due to a knee injury. This rare walkover makes Sabalenka the first woman in over 20 years to reach a Grand Slam semi-final in such a manner. The last player to achieve this was Fabiola Zuluaga at the Australian Open 2004.

Historic Walkover Achievement

With this unexpected advancement, Sabalenka joined an exclusive group of players to have progressed to a Slam semi-final through a walkover in the Open Era. Before her, only Arantxa Sanchez Vicario at the 1992 Australian Open and Fabiola Zuluaga in 2004 had done so.

Vondrousova’s Sudden Exit

Vondrousova, the current Wimbledon champion, had been in strong form throughout the tournament. She earned impressive victories against top-10 seeds Jasmine Paolini and Elena Rybakina, raising hopes of a deep run in New York.

However, her campaign ended unexpectedly during a practice session on Tuesday. While hitting a forehand, she appeared to injure her knee and left the court in tears. ESPN cameras captured the emotional moment as she was helped off the court.

"I tried my best to take the court today but during the warm-up I felt again my knee," Vondrousova said in a statement. "After consultation with the tournament doctor, I decided not to risk aggravating the injury."

Ongoing Injury Struggles

This latest setback adds to Vondrousova’s long list of injury troubles. She missed the 2023 US Open and the 2024 Australian Open due to shoulder issues. This year marked her return to Flushing Meadows after two years, and her run to the quarter-finals had signaled a strong comeback.

Vondrousova’s performance also contributed to a milestone for Czech tennis, as she was one of three Czech women to reach the last eight of the tournament.

Sabalenka’s Reaction and Upcoming Challenge

Sabalenka expressed her sympathy for Vondrousova on social media. She wrote, "So sorry for Marketa after all she’s been through. She has been playing amazing tennis and I know how badly this must hurt for her."

The world number one will now face American Jessica Pegula in the semi-final, setting up a rematch of last year’s US Open final. Sabalenka has displayed dominant form throughout the tournament as she chases her third Grand Slam title.

The clash against Pegula promises to be a high-stakes battle as Sabalenka aims to defend her crown and make history once again.